slovenia's summer guide 2013

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4/108The Slovenia Times| Summer guide 2013

Essential informationSlovenia has been an independent democratic republic since 1991.

The country has been a member of the European Union since2004.

Slovenia is one of the smallest countries in Europe (20.273square kilometres). Its half the size of Switzerland, which isnt

particularly big either. But Slovenia compensates its small surfacewith a lot of vertical kilometres; its themost mountainouscountry in Europe.

Slovenia is also the thirdmost forested country in Europe andwith 27.000 kilometres of rivers it is also rich of water.

Slovenia has two million inhabitants which is the same as the cityof Paris. Thus, its a very sparsely populated country.

Average height above sea level: 556.8 m

TrafficFor up to date traffic information check: www.promet.siSpeed limits: 50 km/hr in towns and villages, 90 on main roads,130 on highways.Cars in Slovenia must use their headlights at all times. The car mustcontain spare wheel, warning triangle, a spare lightbulb and first aid kit.On the Slovenian highways you must use a vignette. For cars thereare weekly (15 euro), monthly (30 euro) and annual (95 euro)

vignettes. Weekly vignettes are valid for seven consecutive days,from and including the day of purchase. Monthly v ignettes are validfrom the moment of purchase up until the end of the day with thesame number one month after the day of purchase. Annual vignettesare valid till the 31st of January the next year, so this year till 31Januar 2014.Dont take a risk with the vignettes. For driving on a motorwaywithout a valid vignette sticker, a fine of 300 to 800 euros isenvisaged.Railways:Slovenian Railways: sss.slo-zeleznice.si/en

Opening hours:Banks:9.00 am 5.00 pm generally with a lunch break at 12.Shops:MonFri 7.00 am/9.00 am 7.00 pm/9.00 pmSat 7.00 am/9.00 am 1.00 pm/3.00 pmSun 9.00 am/1.00 pm (only large shopping centres)All Slovenian cities now have large shopping centres on theiroutskirts.

Eating:

Restaurants go by the names of restavracija and gostilna.A restavracija is mainly for lunch and dinner.A gostilna is more casual. Its also a place you can go to for a coffee,for example. Both are usually opened all day.

SmokingSmoking is prohibited in all public buildings. That includes bars,hotels and restaurants. You must be 18 years of age or older to buycigarettes.

Important telephone numbers112 Emergency services (urgent medical help,

firef ighters, veterinary help, rescue teams)

113 Police (emergency)

080 12 00 Police (reporting offenders, anonymous phone line)

1987 AMZS roadside assistance and towing

080 1900 Tourist telephone - free line for tourists and tourismworkers to report their comments, complaints,criticism and suggestions 24 hours a day


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6 Map of Slovenia

8 WEST In the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway

9 Koper12 The Emerald Trail

13 Bovec14 Tolmin and Kobarid

15 Kanal 16 Nova Gorica

16 empeter-Vrtojba 17 Rene-Vogrsko 18 Ajdovina 18 Vipava 19 Idrija 20 The Krast and Brkini 20 Seana 20 Divaa 20 Hrpelje Kozina

21 Komen tanjel 21 Miren Kostanjevica 21 kocjan Caves 22 Lipica 24 The Green Karst 26 Krina Jama (Cross Cave) 26 Notranjska Museum in Postojna 27 Loka Dolina 28 Pivka Park of Military History 30 Postojna Cave

34 NORTH King Matja sleeps and sleeps and ...

35 Gorenjska 38 Kranjska Gora 40 Jesenice 41 Jezersko 42 Bled 44 Radovljica 46 Naklo 47 Cerklje 48 Tri 50 kofja Loka 54 Activities in Slovenia Special adventures 56 The Upper Savinja and alek Valley 57 Golte 57 Gornji grad 57 Topolica 57 Velenje 58 Ljubno 58 Lue 58 The Solava-Logar Valley 60 Koroka

Contents


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Portoro/PortorosePiran/Pirano

Izola/Isola

Ankaran/Ancarano

Hrastovlje

kocjan

Lipica

Seana

tanjel

Vipava

Ajdovina

Deskle

Idrija

Cerkno

Tolmin

iri

BohinjskaBistrica

eleznikiKobarid

Bovec

KranjskaGora Mojstrana

Hruica

Bled Brezje Tri

PreddvorNaklo

Pivka

Postojna

BorovnicaLogatec

Vrhnika

Vodice

Ilirska Bistrica

Cerknica

Ribn

Osilnica

IvG

Grosuplje

Lit

Ljubob S

DOMALE

KamnikaBistrica

Brdo

Kamnik

Menge

LJUBLJANA

KOPER/CAPODISTRIA

KRANJ

JESENICE

NOVAGORICA

KOFJALOKA

Coast: Koper, one of the oldest cities inSlovenia, developed from a rocky islandinto an important tourist destination.

The Karst and Birkini: The people ofthe Karst region invite you to their winecellars for Teran and prosciutto. You canchoose to spend the night on ahomestead or in an apartment.

Emerald Trail: The Soa has been aninspiration for poets, the frontline in theFirst World War and the location for ascene in the Disney movie Chronicles ofNarnia: Prince Caspian.

Gorenjska: Big mountains with greenslopes, savage high rock walls and evensometimes in summertime a smallblanket of snow draped around thehighest peaks.

Green Karst: Within the embrace ofwide forests, an as tonishing world ofkarstic wonders, roaring undergroundand calm surface water awaits you.

Upper Savinja and alek Valley:The picturesque and colourfully vegetallandscape, rich with natural and culturalattractions, of fers many opportunities forexploration and relaxation in a peaceful,natural environment.

Centre: THE HEART OF SLOVENIA is

an area in central Slovenia, East ofLjubljana, where modern life intertwineswith the traditional pulse of thecountryside.


9/108Summer guide 2013 |The Slovenia Times

e

DolenjskeToplice

rnomelj

Vinica

Metlika

marjekeToplice

Otoec

entjernej

Trebnje

entrupert

ate

Breice

Krko

Brestanica

Podsreda

Sevnica

Radee

RimskeToplice

Lako

alec

Polzela

Dobrna

SlovenskeKonjice

Zree

VELENJE

otanj

Topolica

Mislinja

SlovenjGradec

grad

Ravnena Korokem

Radljeob Dravi

Lovrencna Pohorju

SlovenskaBistrica

entjur

Poljane

Pragersko

RogakaSlatina

Podetrtek

Rogatec

Dornava Ormo

Lenart vSlov. goricah

entilj vSlov. goricah Gornja

Radgona

Radenci

Grad

MoravskeToplice

Dobrovnik/Dobronak

Beltinci

Ljutomer

Lendava/Lendva

Sredieob Dravi

jevi

Hrastnik

PTUJ

BOVLJE

NOVOMESTO

MARIBOR

MURSKASOBOTA

CELJE

oka: Its plentiful gems areered throughout numerous littles, villages and the surroundingys stretching far below the mightyntain peaks, which dominate thene.

Dolenjska: When you think you knowwhat new is in Novo mesto (New City),you can experience a different

Dolenjska.

Pomurje: Welcome to the dreamyPomurje, a land of storks, vineyards,healing waters and energy points, wind-rattles, f loating mills, original traditionsand dialects.

Maribor Pohorje: Maribor is thesecond largest town in Slovenia with aunique old centre that provides rich eventsand is filled with attractions and pubs.

Posavje: A green world at theconfluence of the Sava and Krka, thermalsprings, vineyards and castles;

Ptuj: From the Stone Age to this day,history has writ ten a chronicle in stone inthe Ptuj region, where roads meet thatlinked sunny Italy with the Pannonianlowlands and the Alps with the Balkans.

Deela Celjska: A visit to the regionin the summer is the time to experiencegood vibes, be it at medieval events,open-air concerts, local festivals orsporting events.



along the Soa. Back in those days theregion was Austrian territory as Slovenia waspart of Austria-Hungary.

Hemingway describes the horror andpointlessness of war and the characters thatare caught up in it. It was war in a beautifulsetting. The way Hemingway describes thesurroundings makes one want to visit them(in peacetime though). The novelist was forsome time stationed in Kobarid, then knownas Caporetto. ,,I remembered it as a littlewhite town with a campanile in a valley.

Hemingway wrote. ,,It was a clean little town

It was the worst of times in the west ofSlovenia between 1915 and 1918. The Firs tWorld War held the region in a violent andtight grip. Legend says that the emeraldgreen water of Slovenias natural crownjewel, river Soa, turned red.

Among the thousands of soldiers thatwere engaged in gruelling battles was thefamous American writer Ernest Hemingwaywho wrote his novel A Farewell to Armsbased on his experiences here. Hemingwayvolunteered as an ambulance driver in the

Italian Army that was fighting the Austrians

and there was a fine fountain in the square.Hemingway saw the Soa river many

times: ,,There were trees along both sides ofthe road and through the right line of trees Isaw the river, the water clear, fast andshallow.

Hemingway started to write A Farewell toArms back home in the United States. Thebook was published in 1929 and it becamehis first bestseller.

The whole west of Slovenia fell into Italianhands after the war. The Italian influence is

still present today. After the Second WorldWar the region became part of Yugoslaviabefore finally be one of the regions of therepublic of Slovenia.

The west of Slovenia is one of the mostdiverse regions of the country. It harboursmountains and Slovenias 40 kilometre longAdriatic coast. The region has a long andrich history. Culture and architecture areinfluenced by the powers of the formerRepublic of Venice and Austria-Hungary thatruled here.

In the footsteps ofErnest Hemingway

West

,,The beautiful colours of the Soa river,that differ from emerald to turquoise, areall natural. The Soa gets it beautiful tintsof greens thanks to the limestone thats on

the rivers bed.

Ernest HemingwaySoa

Napoleons bridge; Photo: LTO Sotoje

WWI trenchesWWI museum in Kobarid; Photo: Bobo



EVENTSSummer events in Koper

5th to 7th July: Feta Kalamarov(Kalamari Festival) > Pleasantatmosphere, a full plate of squid, local wines,

sunset by the sea and Mediterranean music.This is Feta Kalamarov.4th to 10th September: EuroBasket 2013> Koper is one of the hosting cities of theEuropean basketball Championship,EuroBasket 2013. The Bonifika Hall will seethe preliminar y matches played by countries ofthe Group D (Finland, Greece, Russia , Italy,Sweden and Turkey).21st and 22nd September: Sweet Istria2013 > For an entire weekend, the streets ofKoper will be transformed into the biggestvenue of deserts and sweet products inSlovenia. Tastings, workshops, lectures andchildrens program will diversify the richfes tival program.

Ljubljana

107km

KoperVisit Koperand its enchanting surroundingsKoper, one of the oldest cities in Slovenia, developed from a rocky island into an important touristdestination. Together with its hinterland, it offers great opportunities to discover thecharacteristics of the Slovenian Istria.

Experience Koper andHrastovlje with the combinedticketsVisitors can now discover the heart of thecity centre of Koper with the combinedticket. It includes visits to the renownedPraetorian Palace, the Tito Square and theCathedral of St. Marys Assumption.Experienced guides will present the richhistory, geographical features and otherinteresting facts connected to this friendlyMediterranean city. The visit to the city towerat the end will astonish everybody with abeautiful panorama over the city and itssurroundings.

To upgrade the city experience, visitorsare invited to discover the authentic Is trian

West Coast

Tourist information centre KoperTito Square 36000 Koper, SloveniaT: +386 5 6646 [email protected]

hinterland where a number of small villagesare hidden. Among them is also Hrastovlje.A trip to this unique village under the Karst

edge can become a real experience.The combined ticket offers guided visits ofthe village with a presentation of historical,natural and cultural features of the area,visits to the two local galleries and visits tothe church of the Holy Trinity, where thefamous frescos are hidden. The discovery ofthe village will continue wi th two tradit ionalfood and wine tas tings.

Additional information, schedules andprice lists are available on the websitewww.koper.si.

Welcome to Koper, welcome to Hrastovlje,welcome to the Slovenian Istria!

Koper Tito Square

Hrastovlje; Photo: U. Trnkoczy

Hrastovlje Frescoes

Koper; Photo: Jaka Jeraarni Kal


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Spoznaj Hrastovlje s

SKUPNO VSTOPNICO

Scoprite Hrastovlje acquistando

IL BIGLIETTO COMBINATO

Discover Hrastovlje with theCOMBINED TICKET

Hrastovlje mit der einheitlichen

EINTRITTSKARTE KENNENLERNEN

DOIVIVIVI

EXPERIENCEKENNENLERNEN

www.koper.sGSM: +386 41 398 368

Hrastovlje


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Spoznaj Titov trg s

SKUPNO VSTOPNICO

Scoprite Piazza Tito acquistando

IL BIGLIETTO COMBINATO

Discover Tito Square with theCOMBINED TICKET

Tito-Platz mit der einheitlichen

EINTRITTSKARTE KENNENLERNEN

www.koper.siTel.: +386 5 6646 403

DOIVIVIVI

EXPERIENCEKENNENLERNEN

KoperCapodistri



The Emerald TrailTreasure hunt on theEmerald TrailIt runs past high snow-capped mountains,through surreal gorges and undermonumental stone arch bridges. But it is itsemerald green water that makes river Soaso astonishing.

The Soa has been an inspiration forpoets, the frontline in the First World War

and the location for a scene in the Disneymovie Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.And now its also the centre of a route pastsome of Slovenias biggest treasures; theEmerald Trail.

The trail connects all tourist destinationsin the basin of the Soa river, that alsoincludes rivers Idrijca, Vipava and Tolminka.The Emerald Trail binds the mountainousworlds of Bovec, Kobarid and Tolmin with thehills and vineyards of Gorica, Brda andVipava and the mountains of the Upper SoaRegion towards Idrija and Cerkno.

Natural treasuresOn the Emerald Trail you can go on a questto the most stunning natural treasures. Nearthe town Idrija the Wild Lake awaitsdiscovery. The green lake, a naturalmonument, lies between trees and ahundred metre high rock wall. Near NovaGorica the Kostanjevica monastery holdsthe worlds biggest collection of Bourbonroses. The roses blossom during the monthsof May and June. The Tolmin gorges are

another true natural treasure. The gorges

West The Emerald Trail

are the lowest and southernmost entry pointinto the Triglav National Park and offer asurreal fairy-tale like sight.

Palette of activitiesThe diverse country side along the EmeraldTrail offers a palette of activities. Get anadrenaline kick when you go paraglidingfrom Stol, Lijak or Kobala or canyoningunder the guidance of experienced guides

on the Prjak, Kozjak, Suec, Fratarica,Mrzlipotok, Mlinarica or Predelica streams.The rivers also offer raf ting, kayaking andhydro speed. And if you want to take it a bitslower you can go fly fishing and try to catchthe famous Soa trout. There areinnumerable hiking and biking trails.

The First World WarAlong the Emerald Trail traces of the FirstWorld War are everywhere. You can hike theWalk of Peace in the Upper Soa region.The route passes trenches, fortifications,

caves, memorials, cemetries and chapels.The walk starts at Log pod Mangartom, atthe entrance to the mine shaf t toln, and itends at the outdoor museum on Mengore hillnear Most na Soi.

In Kobarid the Kobarid Museum tellsmany stories of the war. The museum showstwo and a half year s of static fighting andportrays in detail the 12th Isonzo battle, alsoknown as the Caporetto breakthrough.The latter is one of the major battles in thehistory of mankind having taken place in

hilly terrain.

Paragliding; Photo: Suby Lu tolf, Archive LTO Sotoje

Soa; Photo: Bogdan Kladnik, Archive LTO Sotoje

Vineyards; Photo: Oton Naglost, Archive LTO Sotoje

Divje jezero; Photo: Samo Trebian, Archive LTO Sotoje

RDO Smaragdna potPetra Skalarja 45220 TolminT: +386 5 380 04 [email protected]



EVENTSSummer in Bovec is not only known foroutdoor activities, but also for open-air events.

In July, young musicians flock to Bovec for theOrkesterkamp summer camp anddemonstrate their improved musicalknowledge through their performances.The rich intangible heritage of the TrentaValley is presented during the last weekend inJuly. The Trenta Fair is an opportunity to

view, taste and purchase the products of localvendors and creators accompanied by amusical programme with entertainingshepherd and other games that recreate life inTrenta.

In August omparska no (The PotatoNight) attracts numerous visitors. During theomparska no on the 10th of August, localgroups revive the cultural heritage throughdance, songs and games in the centre ofBovec. Bovec culinary offer will satisf y thegourmet taste with dishes such as frika (apotato and cheese dish), ompe (potato),

Bovec cheese and other specialities.

The Farm Games present the traditions ofBovec in a very particular way, spiced up witha humorous note. Theres fun waiting for youon the 17th of August in ezsoa, as teamscompete in games that humorously portrayfarm work such as delanje in pospravl janjestrga (making haystacks and gathering hay),pubiranje omp (gathering potatoes) and odjapke do mota (from apples to must).

Ljubljana

133km

Bovec

BovecBe active in the Valleys of Inspiration and becurious in the exploration of heritage

TIC BovecTrg golobarskih rtev 22, SI- 5230 BovecT: +386 (0)5 384 1919M: +386 (0)31 388 [email protected]

The landscape along the emerald Soa Riverand in the neighbouring valleys is inspiring inits abundance. The natural sights will amazeyou: Boka, the mightiest Slovene waterfall,trips to Krn Lake, Slovenias largest high-altitude lake, the ascent to the Mangart Passon the countrys highest-lying road and Vri,Slovenias highest mountain pass.

Wherever you turn in Bovec, you will befaced with beautiful views of Alpine scenerywith a touch of Mediterranean influence. Theheritage also shows the fascinating

combination of inf luences. Cultural andhistorical paths take us past historical pointssuch as the Klue fortress and the tolnmine tunnel as well as past typicalarchitecture and sheep pastures. Theexcellent Bovec cheese can be purchased inthe mountains and at local cheese shops.Cheese and skuta (a sort of cottage cheese)often accompany local dishes and arefollowed by a desser t of bovski krafi(dumplings) filled with pears.

The best way to explore Bovec is through

sports activities. Besides the very popular

hiking and water sports, such as raf ting andcanyoning, one can also choose somethingfrom the extraordinary offer. Take a ride

down into the valley on a metal cable in oneof the largest zip- line parks in Europe orperhaps with the unusual Monster rollerscooter. E-bike on the other hand willguarantee a relaxed ride around Bovec land.

Events by the Soa river will be vibrantfrom spring to fall. But there are stillinnumerable nooks for those who seekpeace and tranquility. Seek them outthrough active excursions on themountain slopes, river banks, water or in

the air.

Photo: Arhiv LTO Bovec, Leonardo Olmi

Photo: Arhiv LTO Bovec, David tulc Zornik





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EVENTS2 3 Aug > Bukafest, Vrhav4 Aug > Donkey Races, Levpa10 Aug > Summer party, Kanal18 Aug > Bridge Diving, Kanal

13 Oct > Chestnut festival, Lig

Ljubljana127km

TIC KANALPionirska 2, 5213 KanalT: +386 5 39 81 [email protected]

Kanal

Kanal in the heart of

nature and cultureThe Municipality of Kanal ob Soi is situated inthe central Soa Valley at the border with Italy.

Its location between the hills of the Kanalski

Kolovrat and the plateau Banjka planota offersvisitors several possibilities for recreation;

relaxation, cycling, hiking, hunting, fishing, andswimming. The heart of the municipality is

Kanal, a small medieval town with a richcultural heritage.


Neptunes Fountain

Neptunes Fountain was produced in 1815with the help of the Count Coronini. It isbelieved that it is a work by the sculptor M.Chierigin from Padova. In the past, it wasused for water collecting. The women usedto take the water from this fountain withwater containers made of wood.

The Famous BridgeKanals bridge was first made of wood in1580 and following numerous turbulenthistorical events, including the First andSecond World War, the bridge wasreconstructed into the stone arch we can see

today. It is the symbol of Kanal and it attractsthe attention of many artists and visitors fromfar and beyond, especially during traditionalevents such as the bridge diving.



Nova GoricaNew Adventures

Nova Gorica is surrounded by stunning nature

and numerous sights; the KostanjevicaMonastery, Sveta Gora (Holy Mountain),Kromberk Castle, the Solkan Bridge and Europe

Square. The town is bordered by the Trnovo-Banjka Plateau, a wonderful world with an

entirely different climate, full of folk traditionsand natural sights.

The green, viniferous Vipava Valley stretchesout towards the east above which the wingsof parachutists and hang- gliders are spread.This friendly area is the home of excellent

wine of the autochthonous variety, whichpairs harmoniously with the flavours ofVipavas dishes.

Sporting activities include hiking trails,kayaking on the Soa River, the Soa FunPark adventure park, bungee jumping andseveral other sports. The area offers a wholenew world of experiences to enjoy.

EVENTSSummer Adventures in Nova Gorica >July and AugustMohorjevo Event >empas, July 13th and 14thSummer Polenta > mihel, July 15thThe Polenta Festival > Ozeljan, July 21stThe Hay Harvest Festival >Banjice, July 27th

The Peach Festival >Prvaina, August 3rd and 4thBndimska kvaternica > Branik, 25th August

109 kmNova Gorica

Turistina zveza - TIC Nova GoricaDelpinova ulica 18 b5000 Nova GoricaT: +386 (0)5 33 04 600F: +386 (0)5 33 04 606

tzt icng@sio l.netwww.novagorica-turizem.com

Ljubljana

empeter-VrtojbaThe municipality of empeter-Vrtojba is situated where the Vrtojba-Bilje knolls meet the fertileplain. Green forests, vineyards, fields and meadows make the region colourful and vivacious. TheVrtojba-Bilje hills offer the best conditions for growing grapes, fruit, vegetables and flowers, whichis why the region is known as the Garden of Gorika. Visitors can enjoy the lush landscape andclimb the hill Markov Hrib above empeter pri Gorici and the St. Ot hill, which offer marvellousviews of the nearby surroundings.

The municipality of fers a wide variety ofpursuits for active holidaymakers all yearround. As a matter of fact the choice of

recreation and outings is so vast that even

EVENTS21. 6. 26. 7. 2013 > Poletje na placusummer festival in empeter pri Gorici with awide range of events6. 7. 2013 > Trio Eroika, concert

18. 24. 8. 2013 > Plesno poletje(A Summer of Dance), empeter pri Gorici

Obina empeter-VrtojbaTrg Ivana Roba 3 aempeter pri GoriciT: +386 5 335 10 [email protected]

105 kmempeter

Vrtojba

the most act ive tourists will not be able totake advantage of them all. Among otheractivities, visitors can choose f rom cycling,

golf, hiking and even testing their drivingcapabilities at the Kart Track in Vrtojba. At800 metres long and 10 metres wide with atotal of 9 turns, the track is located on theformer Vrtojba International Border Crossing.Besides championships and internationalraces as well as various performances, cartsare available for all adrenaline enthusiasts torent. We offer a wide variety of cartsincluding weaker ones for children. All of thecarts provide a high level of protection,allowing for a safe and fun ride. More

information at: [email protected] .


Photo: M. Moivnik

Solkan bridge; Photo: M. Bijukli

Photo: M. Moivnik


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Tales fromthe valleyThe municipality of Rene-Vogrsko lies on theborder between the Vipava Valley and Kras. Ourbeautiful unspoiled nature and f riendly peoplecreate their own tales, tales from the valley.

Your Daily Sourceof Information

Check Summer Guide 2013 atwww.sloveniatimes.com

EVENTSAugust > traditional Summer Festival inBukovecSeptember > performances for the openingof the Vzornega vrta in Volja Draga

For more information:

www.rence-vogrsko.si

Ljubljana101

km

Contact Information:Obina Rene-VogrskoBukovica 435293 Volja DragaT: + 386 5 33 84 [email protected]

Rene

saplings, natural fruit juices and local spiritscan also be found here. And if you want tostay a bit longer; there is a wide selection oflodgings to choose from.

The calm surroundings of the countrysideoffer tourists a variety of ways to enjoy theirholidays. Short walks, cycling or horseback

Vogrsko

riding are popular options. History lovers canenjoy the cemetary, monuments andbunkers of this former front line between thetwo world wars. Naturalis ts can obser ve thevarious forms of vegetation and wild life inthe woods. Fisherman have the Vipava Riveror Lake Vogrek to choose from. ThePaquito Casino in Volja Draga is definitelyfor those who like to try their luck, while

others may prefer to see the Roman remainsin Bukovica.

Local ProductsThe friendly people of Rene-Vogrsko will bepleased to offer you their products andservices. Wine merchants have a wineselection for you to taste and/or buy.Beekeepers sell products made with honeyor beeswax. And, of course, items such asfruit , vegetables, goat milk products,




Ajdovina,A land of activeexperiencesAjdovina is situated in the heart of the VipavaValley, a green and fert ile land, which providesvisitors with a wide palette of experiences forpeople of all tastes.

EVENTSDays of the Gora Plateau > July 13th Tihadolina na PredmejiVodice Night > July 27th Vodice pri Colu

Foresters Fair and Horse Races in Gozd >August 17th and 18th Gozd pri ColuRecreational Cycling Race in Predmeja >September 1st start at Lavriev trg (LavriSquare), Ajdovina

83km

TIC AjdovinaCesta IV. Prekomorske 61 a5270 AjdovinaT: +386 5 36 59 140tic.a jdovscina@siol .net, w ww.tic-a jdovscina.s i

Ajdovina

Discover the beauty of the Vipava Valleyfrom the seat of a bicycle: ride along theHubelj and Vipava Rivers, cycle throughorchards and vineyards over the Vipava Hillsor climb the Trnovo Plateau and Hruica.

Discover the Gora Plateau, a number ofhiking trails intertwine here and the areasnatural features will enchant you: from caves

and basins to the diverse world of animal andplant life. Explore the Vipava valley throughthe Otliko okno (the Otlica Window), a largenatural opening in the edge of the plateau.

Take off from Ajdovinas airport in apowered parachute or paraglideraccompanied by experienced pilots andexperience an unforgettable panoramic flight

over the Vipava Valley. Fly from the Kvok onthe Gora Plateau airfield for tandemskydiving and discover the magic of flight.

Try our excellent Vipava wine, especiallythe autochthonous types, Pinela and Zelen.Sweeten things up with some of our juicy

Vipava fruit and taste our typical dishes attourist farms and in restaurants.

Spend the night in a hotel in the centre ofAjdovina, a youth hostel on the edge of thetown, in a campsite, in a modern apar tmentor at a tourist farm in the countryside.

Welcome!

VipavaCycling trails

Vipava Valleys mild climate allows foroutdoor sports and recreational activities allyear round. A number of macadam andpaved trails, which wind between theviniferous Vipava hills and through the NanosPlateau, provide many opportunities for

cycling. On the seven circular trails, you will

come into contact with the rich natural andcultural heritage of Vipava and its

surroundings, including the mighty LanthieriManor in the centre of Vipava.

The Vipava wine specialities,Zelen and Pinela, in theVipava wine shopDiscover the Vipava autochthonous wines,Pinela and Zelen, at the Main Square inVipava near the Tourist Information Centre(TIC Vipava). We offer wine tastings everyday between 9:00am and 7:00pm. Taste therich simplicity of the Vipava countryside at anumber of wine cellars and tourist farms,

serving top-notch wine and food.

Where to spend the night?Those wishing to stay with us for a few dayswill find a wide selection of options in bothVipava and the countryside. We recommendthat nature lovers visit Camp Tura, situatedbeneath the immense climbing walls of theNanos Plateau or Camp Vrhpolje, which canbe found in the heart of the Vrhpoljevineyards. You can choose to spend thenight in Vipavas rooms and apartments or at

one of the nearby tourist farms.

EVENTSSummer Cultural Performance IMAGOSLOVENIAE (Spring Water and the Voiceof the Heart) > in July and August in Vipavaat Pavel Rust Square (Trg Pavla Rusta).

September 6th 8th, 2013 > Vipavskatrgatev (Vipava Grape Har vest)

TIC VIPAVAGlavni trg 1, 5271 VIPAVAT: +386 (0)5 368 70 41

+386 (0)51 215 226tic.vipava@siol .netwww.izvirna-vipavska.si

Vipava78k

mLjubljana



EVENTSInternational TANGO Festival >12th July - ww w.idrija-turizem.siThe event is hosted by various musicians, whodeal with this sort of music. Expectperformances by soloists, musical groups andacclaimed foreign musicians.

The International ALTER ART Festival >9th August - www.idrija-turizem.siThe festival presents performers from theareas of amateur culture, alternative youth

subcultures and serious culture, youngalternative musical groups from Slovenia andabroad, art exhibitions and photographicartists, dance performances and literaryevenings.

The Assumption aka Prfarski trukljevc >15th August - www.idrija-turizem.siAttracting a great number of visitors andpilgrims, the Church of Mary on the Rock is thestage for an annual holy mass. During thisholiday, truklje and wreaths are madealongside dancing and singing.

Ljubljana60kmIdrija

Information and reservationsfor guided tour groups:TIC IdrijaVodnikova 3, IdrijaT: +386 (0)5 37 43 916tic@visi t-idri ja.siwww.visit-idrija.si, www.idrija-turizem.si

Idrija,The oldest Slovenianmining town onUNESCOs list

Idrija, the Alpine and EDEN town of 2011, isknown for one of the largest mercury mines in

the world, which, while it was in operation,

attracted researchers and travellers from allover Europe. Las t year the mine was put on

UNESCOs World Heritage Lis t.

Idrija is also known for its enchanting bobbinlace that is held in high esteem all over the

world. Today Idrija bobbin lace is a significantSlovenian decoration and business gif t whilemodern lace accessories adorn thewardrobe of every modern woman.

The culinary offer is also rich, particularlythe local specia lty idrijski likrofi (doughwith a potato filling), which has beenprotected as a traditional specialty by theEuropean Union. Idrija will inspire you withits unspoiled nature and it is a true paradisefor hikers, cyclists, mushroom pickers,fishermen, photographers and the inquisitive

who want a break from their everydayconcerns and to relax in natures picturesqueembrace.

Experience and taste take a trip to the Antonijev rov Tourist

Mine. Look out for the mischievousgnome, Perkmandeljc!

check out the collections of the IdrijaTown Museum, at the beautifulGewerkenegg Castle.

explore nature with a hike along the RakeNatural Trail and Learning Path

visit the Idrija Geopark, enter into hiddennooks, narrow ravines and gorges andget to know our unique geologicalheritage

visit the most beautiful and bio diversepublic aquarium in Slovenia.

Photo: Jani Peternelj



MUNICIPALITY

OF IDRIJA

Photo: Samo Trebian


Photo: Dunja Wedam


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West The Karst and Brkini

Hrpelje KozinaOne municipality;

three worldsThe municipality of Hrpelje Kozina issituated at a junction of roads leading fromTrieste (IT) to Reka (CRO) and fromLjubljana to Koper and, in a way, is a junctureof three worlds: the Brkini Hills, iarija, andMali Kras. On Brkini Hills border with theMaterija Valley, you will come face-to facewith a picturesque landscape of streams andkarstic features (Dimnice Cave). There aremany trails available for cycling and walks

amidst our breath taking natural sights.Friendly, traditional restaurants andtourist farms will of fer you relaxation as wellas local specialties. The pleasant climate isparticularly good for growing fruit (the BrkiniFruit Road). The jewel of Mali Kras isKrajinski Park of Glinica and its numerousrecreational trails. Time stands still at theiarija border with Croatia taking you backin time with its historical details.

SeanaThe KarsticCapitalTake off on a trip to the enchanting karstunderground and the oldest tourist cave in

Europe; Vilenica Cave. Rediscover yourinner child at the Shepherd Games on thePliskina Educational Trail. Get to know thecraft of stonemasonry and then enjoy arelaxing stay at the best Slovenian youthlodging; Pliskovica Hostel. History buff s maybe interested in the cemetery and Tabor WarMuseum, while those preferring the beauty

EVENTSSummer Events:The first week in July > multipleperformances as a part of the MunicipalHoliday

From the end of June to September >open-air cinema (Museum of Slovenian FilmActors)Various ethnological performances >the Shepherd Games

FOLLOW US THROUGH THEENCHANTING PATHS OF KRAS ANDBRKINI

Contact information:Razvojni center DivaaT: + 386 (0)5 / 7310-941, /[email protected]

DivaaA world rich ofnature and cultureA big part of our area is part of the limestonelandscape of the Karst plateau. Here,

besides the magnificent kocjan caves, anumber of karstic caves, collapsed caves,sinkholes and, opposite this, the Senoeta,Vremica and Brkina hills can be found.

Our world is rich with natural and culturalheritage, which allows for hiking, culinaryevenings near a farm, restaurants, a descentinto the dark and silent world of the caves, astudy of our traditions, culture,performances...

The krateljnova homestead, thehome of the Museum of Slovenian Film

Actors, can be found in the centre ofDivaa. It is an excellent example oftraditional karstic archi tecture. The museumoffers insight into the countrys film heritage,while emphasizing the art of acting itself.

EVENTSThe Brkini Apple Holiday in Tatre >An entertainment programme based on theethnological characteristics of BrkiniChestnut fest > Rodik19.10.

of nature may enjoyvisiting the areaskarstic andbotanical gardens.

The wealth of theregion can also beexperiencedthrough cuisine,namely the Teranred wine and localprosciutto.A word of advice:the region is bestexplored by bicycleor on foot.

The Slovenia Times| Summer guide 2013

EVENTSSummer in Pliskovica > June 13 August31: Etno festivalMaldifest > July 5 21: Youth festivalFestival of Teran and Prosciutto >August 4 -11Seana Day > August 23 31

Contact information:Tourist Information Centre SeanaT: +386 5 [email protected]

Contact:Obina Hrpelje - KozinaT: + 386 (0)5 6800 [email protected]


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West The Karst and Brkini

KomenDon't pass withouta stop in tanjelWhen you travel through this part of Krasyou cannot pass without stopping at tanjel,

which is one of the oldest and mostpicturesque settlements in this region.

tanjel is known for its quality design,history and the architecture of its town centreas well as its prehistorical foundations. Thefamous archi tect and urban planner, MaksFabiani, designed the town's Ferrari Garden,which is still popular with tourists.

Visitors cycling from tanjel through thevinyards can expect to encounter touristfarms, restaurants, friendly locals and anumber of religious structures and W WI

remains (Gorjansko, Brestovica pri Komnu).

Miren KostanjevicaLife in the municipality pulses betweenMiren and Kostanjevica in the Karst. Going

for a break in nature could include taking awalk, cycling or horseback riding along thePoti miru (Walk of Peace) in thesurroundings of the Memorial to theDefenders of Slovenian Soil in Cerje, whichoffers an amazing view of the Gulf of Trieste,the Julian Alps and the Vipava Valley.Caterers are especially proud of theirasparagus dishes in the month of May, as thelast weekend in the month is the traditionalasparagus festival in Orehovlje. The peopleof the Karst region invite you to their wine

cellars for Teran and prosciutto. You canchoose to spend the night on a homesteador in an apartment.

Summer guide 2013 |The Slovenia Times

EVENTStanjel is waking up a series ofperformances:Summer Festival AlterSLO (July 12th

14

th

)Medieval Day (August 31st) > The KnightGames, medieval dancing, music, and amarket.

EVENTSJune 7th, 8th & 9th > Opekarski Dnevi athree day event wi th a variety o f things tochoose from such as: lectures, ar t exhibitions,a workshop for children, food tastings...June 24 > Midsummers Day celebration at8:30pm (food, music, a bonfire and fun foreveryone!)

More information at:TIC TemnicaT: +386 (0) 5 308 00 40

+386 (0) 31 310 [email protected] MirenT: +386 (0) 51 202 [email protected]

kocjanCavesOne of the worldsundergroundtreasures

On the crossroads of the impenetrable flyschrock of the Brkini highland and the valley ofriver Reka lies one of Earths naturaltreasures; the kocjan Caves. In the cavesnear the town of Divaa you can see thekarst phenomena at its best.

The kocjan Caves are not just caves.They have been on the UNESCO WorldHeritage list since 1986 because of anincredible subterranean canyon, pioneeringresearch into karst phenomena and richarcheological heritage and great biodiversity.The cave system consists o f many individualcaves, tunnels, streams, natural bridges andkarst sinks. Already in prehistoric timespeople lived around the caves.

A walk through the caves

A visit to the caves is possible with anexperience guide. During the summer a tourof the museum collections is included in theticket for the kocjan Caves Park. This tourlasts about an hour. Visitors can see anethnological collection in the Jkopin barn, akarst collection in the Jurij barn and abiological, geological and archeologicalcollection in the natural science learningcentre the Delez house.

Education TrailAt any time its possible to walk the

Education Trail around the kocjan CavesPark. The trail, which was voted the bestthematic trail in Slovenia in 2011, begins and

ends in front of theinformation Centrein Matavun. The trailis two kilometres long.

TIC tanjelT: +386 (0)5 7690056

+386 (0)41 383986tic.stanjel@komen. si


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Two Faces of a

Single WorldThe intertwined surface and undergroundworld of the Green KarstWithin the embrace of wide forests, an astonishing world of karstic wonders, roaringunderground and calm surface water awaits you. Venture out from the hustle and bustle o fthe city to the most secret corner of Slovenia, Zeleni kras or Green Karst. If youre comingfrom Ljubljana, you can be here in less than an hour.

visited attraction the Postojna Caves, theCave under the Predjama Castle, CrossCave and Planina Cave reveal theastonishing splendour of stalagmites,subterranean lakes with calcareous sinterand the largest conf luence of subterraneanrivers in Europe. In the caves you canencounter miraculous species like thehuman fish that can live to be a hundred.

ProtectedThe value of Green Karsts exceptionalnature is accentuated by the fact that 54 percent of the regions surface is listed as aprotected Natura 2000 area. Natura 2000aims to protect unique species. In the GreenKarst you can, amongst others, f ind theCarniolan Lily, Pyramidal Orchic and the uralowl, the stage beetle and fire salamander,the freshwater Shrimp and Smooth Snakeand the brown bear, lynx and wolf. TheGreen Karst was the f irst Slovenian region to

focus on sustainable tourism. The result isthat the Green Karst will be as it always was;green and quiet.

Castle in a caveHistorical monuments stand proudly in thearea, such as Snenik Castle, Prem Castleand Predjama Castle near Postojna.Predjama shines in splendour underneath acliff. The castle, thats built in a cave, wasonce the home of the notorious knight androbber Erazem Lueg.

West Green Karst

The exceptional interlaced surface and

underground karstic world gives the Inner-Karst region characteristics that are entirelyits own. The intermittent Lake Cerknica isthe largest lake of its kind in Europe and asight to behold all year round. Forests covermore than seventy per cent of the region thatis extremely sparsely populated.

Underground wondersIn the Green Karst the world below thesurface is just as fascinating. The regionboasts the most beautiful, world-renowned

Slovenian karstic caves. Slovenias most

Photo: Archive Notranjski regijski park

Photo: Toma Penko



EVENTSFurmanski praznik (Carting Day) inPostojna, July 7th, 2013 > A traditional all-day ethnological performance, which revivesold customs from the land of horse and car tdrivers. A procession of vehicles of varioustypes with horse teams diversif ies theprogramme with a demonstration of oldSlovenian crafts connected to horse and cartdriving.Turistino drutvo Postojna

Zmaj ma mlade (The Dragon has Young),

Postojna, August 20th September 1st,2013 > A traditional festival of cul tural events(music, films, theatre)Zveza drutev mladinski center Postojna(Postojna Youth Centre)

Ljubljana54km

Postojna

West Green Karst

CerknicaGreen Karst

Get moving in the Green Karst countrysideand go: riding horses, driving a horse team orhay cart, bird and bear watching, cycling,fishing, hiking and cave trekking.

The Great Krpan Hiking Trail is a 91kilometre long route that will take you allacross the Green Karst. The trail begins atthe railway station of Pivka and leads theway over the Javornik mountain chain to

Lake Cerknica through the Loka Dolina bythe Snenik Cas tle and ascends to the BlokePlateau. From there it descends alongMount Slivnica to Lake Cerknica and takesyou to the Rakov kocjan Valley. In the lastsection, the path ascends over Mount Kaliand towards the town of Postojna where itends at the railway station.

There is a wide variety of bike routes.From Postojna you can follow the CastlePath or take the Cave Path through fivecaves around Postojna.www.zelenikras.si

Photo: Archive Notranjski regijski park Photo: Toma Penko

Photo: Toma Penko

The castles are one of the remnants ofthe Green Kars ts thousands of years oldmilitary history. Ruins of fortifications fromthe Bronze Age to the Second World Warstill tell a story today. A part of this past isbrought back to life by The Pivka Park of

Military History that at an altitude of over500 metres is home to a submarine!

Get activeThe Green Karst landscape is not only

nice to look at. It invites you to get active.

Photo: Archive Postojnska jama d.d., Miha Krivic



NotranjskaMuseum inPostojnaThe new representative building containsthe broad history as well as the cultural andnatural heritage of the Inner Carniolan

West Green Karst

EVENTSA ONE HOUR TOUR OF THE DRYSECTION OF THE CAVE GROUP TOURApril, May, June > on Saturdays, Sundaysand holidays at 3:00pmJuly, August > every day at 11:00am, 1:00pm,3:00pm and 5:00pmSeptember > every day at 11:00am, 1:00pmand 3:00pm

FOUR HOUR TOUR OF THE ACTIVESECTION OF THE CAVE FOR TRUE CAVE LOVERSIn order to protect the cave, this section canonly be visited by one group of up to 4 visitorsper day. The tour is approximately 3.5 4 hours.Tours must be booked in advance.

CONTACT INFORMATIONKrina JamaT: [email protected]

Krina Jama (Cross Cave)A primeval attraction of the underground worldKrina Jama (Cross Cave) is a world renowned karstic active cave. Its main at tractions areits crystal clear underwater lakes with barriers of calcareous sinter. The cave also contains asite filled with cave bear bones, which are among the oldest in Europe. Cross Cave is thefourth largest cave ecosystem in the world by biodiversity.

CONTACT INFORMATIONNotranjski muzej PostojnaKolodvorska c. 3, PostojnaT: +386 05 7211 [email protected]

MAY - SEPTEMBER >Every day from 11am 6pm

OCTOBER - APRIL >Monday Friday: from 9am 3pmSaturday and Sunday: from 11am 4pm

The museum is also wheelchairaccessible.

Port of Venice, Photo: Botjan Burger

(karstic) region. The exhibitions arearranged by theme:Memory is at Home in the Museum, amultimedia presentation of thehuman fish, The Living UndergroundWorld and Photographs of the EternalDarkness:Postojna Cave. On the groundfloor of the museum, visitors can also see abrown bear and the skeleton of a cave bear.The museum is a five minute drive from the

world famous Postojna Cave.

Ljubljana54km

PostojnaKrina jama

First Lake, Photo: Gaper Modic



Loka DolinaThe Land of ostrniceIn the south-west of Slovenia, in the midst of a vast forest, the secret karstic world of Loka Dolinais revealed. Here you can still experience the authenticity of life in the countryside and thediversity of natural beauty.

West Green Karst

EVENTSSummer Events:

In the Land of Ostrnice > a selection ofethnological performances, the mostimportant of which are: Igre med os trnicami(Games among the Hayricks) and MedievalDay from May 23rd 26th, 2013 at CastleSnenik

Loka Night > June 8th, 2013, LoInternational Archery Competition 3DRing > June 22nd, 2013, in the vicinity ofCastle SnenikLo Kovinoplastika Wind InstrumentOrchestra on Statehood Day > June 25th,2013, Stari trg pri Lou

The Gallop Races > July 13th, 2013, in thevicinity of the village of Nadlesk

15th ZAPIK Festival > September 13th, 14thand 15th, 2013, Castle SnenikLo Grass Skiing > September 14th, 2013,Loka dolinaThe Open Municipal Championship inAccelerated Chess > September 22nd,2013, Stari trg pri LouPerformance as part of the EuropeanHeritage Days > September 28th October10th, 2013, Loka dolina

Ljubljana

56k

m

Tourist Office Contact Information:Lo Tourist Information CentreCesta 19. oktobra 491386 Stari trg pri LouT: +386 (0)81 602 [email protected]

Stari trg pri LouLoka dolina

A thousand year old look back in historyfocuses on a rich cultural heritage which hasdrawn silhuettes of ostrnice, a uniquemethod of drying hay and agriculturalproduce in Loka Dolina.

Local hosts will serve you traditionalhome-made food. Various forms oflodging are also on offer: sleeping in a hayloft, in a tent, in apartments or in comfortablyequipped rooms.

Main Offers:The Snenik Castle is a unique museumof living culture in the 19th century and oneof the rarest castles in Slovenia, boasting itsoriginal furniture and fittings. The imposingRenaissance structure, with a touch of theromantic, is situated in a park designed in

the regional style and composed of anumber of promenades, clearings, waterfeatures and walking paths. The HuntingCollection and Dormouse Museum, whichwas hunted for its pelt, can be found in thecastle manor house.

The underground karstic world concealsone of the most beautiful water-filled caves,Krina jama. It was named af ter the Churchof the Holy Cross, which is situated on anearby hill. Its most interesting features arethe crys tal clear, underground lakes divided

by a calcareous sinter that can be explored

by boat. The cave is known for the diversityof its cave organisms and also as a dwellingplace for bats. The cave also contains a cavebear bones site.

Loka Dolina offers a number of

possibilities for outdoor activities. Hikerscan take off through the mountain and themedtrails, climb nearby hills or the prominent Mt.Snenik (1796 m). Cyclists can choose a trailbased on their capabilities and wishes, horselovers may prefer an unforgettable ride ormerely enjoy a ride in a carriage, hay cart orsledge during the winter months.



Ljubljana

62

km

Pivka

West Green Karst

Park of Military History PivkaA unique museum and tourist centreThroughout the centuries many empires, kingdoms and countries have tried to subordinate andfortify the broader area of the Postojna Gate (also known as the Gate of Italy) as this has alwaysrepresented one of the most important strategic points in Europe. The rich military history of thearea is now exhibited in Pivka and includes a vast national tank artillery collection containingexamples of American, Soviet and Yugoslav tanks, and cannons left behind by various armies onthe territory of what is today the Republic of Slovenia. The Park of Military History Pivka is a uniquemuseum and tourist centre in Central Europe offering its visitors an outstanding experience and an

insight into the diverse history of this part of the world.

WW2 exhibits

The most interesting exhibits date back tothe Second World War. You can see thefamous Soviet T-34 tank, the most typicalarmoured vehicle of the eastern f ront andthe American Stuart and Sherman tanksfrom the western front.

Park of Military History PivkaKolodvorska cesta 51, PivkaT: +386 5 721 21 [email protected],www.parkvojaskezgodovine.si

Photos: Simon Avsec, Andrej Kogovek

Slovenian war ofindependenceA special place in the collection belongs tothe T-55 tank which entered Slovenianstreets on 26 June 1991 from the barracksof what is today the Military Park, andopposed the Yugoslav army over the justliberated Republic of Slovenia. This event

has made the location of the Park verysymbolic as it was where the war forSlovenias independence began and it wasalso the first armed conflict in Europe afterWW2. A reminder of the dramatic events of1991 is the gazelle TO- 001 Velenjehelicopter, the first aircraft of the Slovenianarmed forces.

Zeta submarineThe Park is also home to a submarine. Thelargest and heaviest exhibit of the museum,a P-913 Zeta submarine, represents an

important engineering legacy of Slovenia.The inside of the submarine can also beseen making the entire experience trulyunforgettable. Visitors can learn about itsmysterious operations and experience how itwas to live in a small, cramped place deepunder the sea.

Where history meets natureVisitors who would like to learn about historyin the embrace of unspoilt nature should walkthe Circular Trail of Military History. Hikers

can see the former Italian fortress at Primoand continue to the ilentabor Castle wherethe largest Slovenian fort , used against theTurks, stood. Continuing through the touristvillage of Narin visitors then return to thestarting point - the Park of Military History Pivka.



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Postojna CaveThe most popular tourist attraction in

SloveniaAbout half way between Ljubljana and the coast or if you like, between Vienna and Venice

lies one of the most beautiful corners of this world the Slovenian Kras. This is an unusualworld of rocks and water interwoven with numerous specific surface and underground

phenomena which have always stirred our imagination and attracted many visitors andresearchers with their mysterious character. One of the most recognizable and beautiful

natural sights which has brought international fame to Kras, is the Postojna Cave which hasattracted visitors from far and wide for centuries; and in the last two centuries in great

masses. Kras is also a world of exciting culture and castles, such as Predjama Castle rankedamong the 10 most fascinating castles in the world.

Postojna CavePostojna Cave, the underground cathedralwhere centuries mean nothing, is one of thelongest caves with 21 kilometres of exploredtunnels and sits in the eli te group ofunderground caves with the greatestnumber of stalactites. It is ex tremely wellequipped for tourists and easily accessibleby anyone. Its beauty has been admired bymore than 35 million visitors who aretaken into the mysterious subterranean

world by the cave train while the kind andqualified cave guides safely lead them alongthe illuminated tunnels. For 140 years, thePostojna Cave, as the only cave in the world,offers a unique and adventurous ride with aspecial train, which will take you into thecave, under spectacular undergroundarches, which are embellished withchandellier look-alike stalactites, through abeautiful subterranean world full of playfullimestone sculptures. The enchanting hallswill take your breath away and the thrillinglynarrow tunnels will raise your heart rate.

Proteus Cave with vivariumSince the middle of the 17th century,Postojna Cave has been of interest to naturalscientists and is therefore considered thecradle of speleobiology, the science ofsubterranean life. The Postojna undergroundworld is inhabited by around 150 differentanimal species. Visit the Proteus Vivariumin Postojna cave to discover the peculiaritiesof the subterranean environment, the history

of karstology and speleobiology. Apart from

West Postojna Cave

,,Postojna Cave is the only cav e where youcan take a special train and ride undermagnificent underground arches.



West Postojna Cave

EVENTS

Visitor Information >Postojna cave is open all year -in July and August from 9am - 6pm,in June and September from 9am - 5pm.Tours of the cave last approximately 90minutes. No special equipment is needed,however comfortable footwear and somewarm clothing is recommended; the cave has aconstant temperature of 10C. Audioguidesare available in 15 languages.

Ljubljana54km

Postojna

Postojnska jama, d. d. PostojnaJamska cesta 30, [email protected]

the, olm (Proteus anguinus), you can seeother species of cave animals. The mostfascinating among them, the Olms, havebeen exciting peoples imaginations forcenturies, and it was once believed that theywere the offspring of a dragon. They areblind and can live up to 100 years.

Predjama Castle and caveunder the castleOnly 10km from Postojna Cave, nestled in a

123m high rock wall, sits one of the mostpicturesque wonders of human history thePredjama Castle which has been a

dominant feature for more than 700 years. Itis massive, threatening and unconquerable.It was perfect as the secret domicile of thedaring, stubborn and persistent ErasmusLueger (Erazem Predjamski) who isdescribed in a romantic and beautiful storyabout a robber. Underneath PredjamaCastle the subterranean river, Lokva,formed an underground cave, the tunnels ofwhich are arranged in four discerniblestoreys. Visitors can choose a variety of waysto see it from the interesting touris t walk to

more demanding tours suitable forexperienced cavers.


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King Matja sleepsand sleeps and sleeps

empty. Then Matja finds a scared and

wounded stable boy whos wandering aroundthe castles square. ,,Majes ty, oh majesty, itsterrible, the boy cries while he throwshimself on his knees in front of Matja. ,,Itwas the sultan. He and his men came duringthe night and took the queen.

After the king handed the boy some coinshe jumps on his horse again. Matja and hismen, the black army, ride all day before theyfind the Turkish camp. They surround it andat night they attack. Matja rescues hisAlenka from the tent of the sultan. Togetherthey ride back to Koroka. In absence of the

king though, the envious rulers ofsurrounding kingdoms forged a plan todefeat king Matja and conquer Koroka.

An enemy army is waiting in a field for thearrival of Matja who got wind of the plan.Matja and his best soldiers storm, theirswords raised high, towards their newenemy. But the opposition is strong, toostrong. Matja loses many of his soldiers andwith the leftovers of his black army he fleesto the Karavanke mountains where they getstuck. And then a miracle happens.

Mountain Peca opens up and king Matjaand his soldiers enter. They are safe. Afterthe mountain closes again, Matja and hissoldiers sink into a deep sleep. But just wait,one day they will wake up again and rescueSlovenia from who- or whatever it needsrescuing from.

Now, hundreds of years later Matja, whois cast in bronze, is still sleeping in the cave.

Any progress on the growth of his beard as,unfortunately, yet to be seen. The cave canbe found near the top of the mountain MalaPeca. There are many versions of the tale ofKing Matja. It is still the most popular tale inthe north of Slovenia.

North

On top of the Mala Peca in the Karavanke

mountain range a man sits at a table in acave. Its King Matja and he is sleeping withhis head resting on his right arm. When hisbeard will have wrapped itself nine timesaround the pillar of the table Matja will wakeup.

When Matja rules over Cartinthia(Koroka) in the north of Slovenia, life isgood. In fact, it was never better. Thecompassionate and generous Matja handsout golden coins as if they were crumbs ofbread. Krn Castle near Klagenfurt is theKings home and the doors of the castle are

always open for people who need his help.But the happy times dont last in Koroka.

The Turks are coming from the east. Andone night when Matja is out fighting theTurks, the sultan and his men attack thekings castle where Matja wife Alenka issleeping. The sultan kidnaps her. Alenkadisappears in the night with the sultan andnot knowing of the events in the castleMatja fights on.

The next morning the king returns home,tired from a fierce battle, to f ind his castle

Aljas Tower on Triglav Slovenias Highest Peak (2864m)

Bled; Photo: Luka Esenko

King Matja sleeping; Photo: STO

,,Every Saturday morning there are freetrainings around Lake Bled. Point ofgathering is the terrace of Grand HotelToplice. The trainings star t at 9, excepJuly a nd Augu st when t he sta rt is a t 8.



North Gorenjska / Slovenian Alps

Enchanted by amarvellous mountain

panoramaBig mountains with green slopes, savage high rock walls and even sometimes insummertime a small blanket of snow draped around the highest peaks. Places in theGorenjska-region (Upper Carnolia) share a beautiful mountain panorama. But dont just

stare at it; go and discover the treasures that lie in between.

Lakes and ponds

No region in Slovenia features so many lakesas Gorenjska. Slovenias only island in the

middle of Lake Bled creates such apicturesque scene that Bled got nominatedas one of the new Seven Wonders of theWorld. A few dozen of kilometres furtherthan Bled lies Slovenias biggest naturalpermanent lake; Lake Bohinj. Bohinj is aplace too beautiful for murder said murdermystery author Agatha Christie when shewas on holiday here.

On the plain near enur, Trboje Lake ishome to no less than 140 species of waterbirds. In the Zavrnica valley in irovnica a

lake was created af ter damming the

Zavrnica stream for Slovenias firsthydropower plant in 1914. The plant isclosed, its location a popular touristdestination.

In Jezersko locals created the heart-shaped lake Planarsko to commemorate aglacial lake that disappeared. In Preddvorthe rnava Lake is a popular place forfishing or a boat tr ip. A fishing top spot youcan find in Bistrica near Naklo. Here in theeje fish ponds you can fish all year long.Near iri is the Raevsko Lake. Its one ofthe smallest lakes in the country and once ayear it falls dry.

And not to forget the seven lakes of theTriglav Lake Valley that lie between a height

of 1294 metres and 1993 metres. The

valley was the first place in the TriglavNational Park that got a protected status.

Gorges and waterfallsWater is showing its enormous strength

on several places in gorges and waterfalls. InTriglav National Park you can find the 78metre high Savica waterfall in Bohinj andnear Kranjska Gora the Martuljek waterfalls

and the Perinik waterfall. In Gorenja Vas-Poljane the Slatuki waterfalls fall down.There are seven waterfalls located at thesource of the Slatuka stream. Close toBesnica near Kranj is the um waterfall.

The Vintgar Gorge in Gorje is a surrealnatural phenomenon. A 1.6 kilometre longpath of bridges and galleries runs throughthis wild landscape of pools, rapids and a 13metre high waterfall. Nearby is the dryPokljuka Gorge. Its one of the mostimpressive gorges of the region and with 2kilometres the longest one in Slovenia. The

Dovanova Gorge near Tri is a uniquegeological site. Along a geological naturetrail you can find rock that dates back almost300 million years.

Gorje; Photo: Jot Gantar, Picture Slovenia

Lake Bohinj; Photo: STO

Kukova pica; Photo: Jot Gantar, Picture Slovenia




Where historycomes aliveDuring a visit to the towns and villages of Gorenjska history comes alive. Archaeologicalfinds in museum collections can take you back as far as prehistory and in Gorenjska old

city centres you feel as if you are walking in the period of their construction; the middle ages.

The city of Kranj, the capital of Gorenjska,has a history that goes back some 1500years when Slav tribes arrived. Theirjewellery can now be seen in Kranjs regionalmuseum. Underneath Kranj more recenthistory comes to life in the network oftunnels and shelters, built during the SecondWorld War. During the German occupation a1300 metre long air raid shelter was built.The underground world can now be visited.

On Bleds island remains are found fromprehistory. Bled Castle on the hill along thelake is one the oldest castles of the country.More recent history had more effect herethough. In the 19th century Swiss therapistArnold Rikli established the foundations ofspa tourism in Bled and that was the start oforganised tourism here.

MedievalSeated on top of a hill, the centre ofRadovljica still breathes the middle ages.

The restored medieval centre and the castle

park are protected features. Along theoriginal city walls the only surviv ing moat inthe country can be found. I f you walk overkofja Lokas upper square Mestni Trg orlower square Spodnji Trg you get the feelinga knight on a horse might pass you anymoment. The town is one of the mostcarefully preserved medieval towns inSlovenia. Outside of the city walls a trailleads to the kofja Loka Castle.

Industrial heritageThe little town Tri near the Austrian borderwas for a long time known as Neumarkt, nowits a little gem thats sometimes called theVenice of Gorenjska. The town has a longhistory in shoemaking and related industries.Its also the only European town where thehouses have door- and window shuttersmade of forged metal.

A much more industrial setting you cansee in the city of Jesenice, that is tucked in

between steep Karavanke mountains.

Jesenice is and always has been a city ofsteelworkers. Now its the home ofSlovenias biggest steel factory. Ironworksstarted here already in the middle ages.Stara Sava, a protected industrial area of theformer ironworks settlement, is open forvisitors.

The small town of elezniki was once acentre of iron smelting. In the town you can

find preser ved ironworkers houses and theonly example of a blast furnace to bepreserved in Europe.

kof ja Loka Jesenice; Photo: Jot Gantar

Kranj Kranfest

Radovljica

Bled Castle




Be activeGorenjskas beautiful nature invi tes you toget moving. Options to hike and bike arealmost endless; from routes on the plainsaround Kranj, to journeys to themountaintops.

One of Slovenias most exceptional bikeroutes is the bike path that lies on thefoundation of a decommissioned railroad inthe north of Gorenjska, connecting Jesenicewith Italian Tarvisio and passing Mojstrana,Kranjska Gora and Ratee.

Winter sport paradise Kranjska Goraoffers in summer a toboggan run, anadrenaline cycling park and alpine climbingand hiking routes. For children there isKekec Land; an adventure park named aftera popular hero from books and television.Also the ski-resort Krvavec in Cerklje offers

summer activities.In Bled you can play golf on one of the

most beautiful courses in Central Europe, onthe lakes you can go rowing, f ishing andswimming

Memorable mountainsSlovenias highest mountains lie in the JulianAlps. Among them is the countrys highestmountain pass Vrsic (1611metres). Thepass, which has 48 hairpins, offers greatviews. Take note of the cobblestones in the

hairpins on the northern slope. Russian

prisoners of war laid them during the FirstWorld War. Along the road is a Russianchapel.

In the north the Karavanke mountainsseparate Slovenia from Austria. For a greatview over Jezersko you can drive or hike upJezerski Vrh. The 1218 metre high mountainpass is one of the road connections betweenSlovenia and Austria.

In the east of Gorenjska lie the Kamnik-Savinje Alps. Mountain Krvavec, that is partof this range, is a true challenge for cyclistswith gradients of almost twenty per cent.

In the south of Gorenjska the ruggedmountains have passed over in the greenkofjeloko and Polhograjsko mountainrange.

Mystical mountainOn 26 June 1991, the eve of Sloveniasdeclaration of independence fromYugoslavia, two mountaineers hiked to thetop of Mount Triglav. Upon arrival theyunfurled a new flag; the colours white, blueand red and in it a coat of arms with very

prominently a drawing of the three headed

peak of Triglav. The 2864 metre high Triglavis much more than Slovenias highestmountain.

Triglav is literally and figurativelySlovenias biggest symbol. The mountain isthe centrepiece of Slovenias only nationalpark, Triglav National Park, which has morethan a thousand valuable natural features.Its also the home of Goldhorn (Zlatorog); animmortal buck from a famous Slovenian tale

that teaches us to respect nature.

Lake Bled; Photo: Role Bregar

Cycling around Lake Bohinj Triglav; Photo: STO

Kranjska Gora



KranjskaGora

In the Kingdom ofthe GoldhornIn the northwest of Slovenia there is a fairy tale

land which offers thousands of pleasures onthe snow in winter and an escape from the

unbearable heat to a pleasant shade foreveryone who wants an active holiday full of

experiences in summer. We are, of course,speaking about one of the most beautiful

mountain jewels KRANJSKA GORA.In summer and winter Kranjska Gora offers a

wide range of active experiences. You maychoose from hiking, cycling, Nordic walking,

golf, fishing, horseback riding, Alpine climbing,skiing, crosscountry skiing, sledding, ski

touring and ice skating.

CyclingYou can decide for a lazy pedalling style orfor more demanding journeys into the heartof the Alpine valleys. You will work up asweat and get a tan on the steep slopes ofthe Karavanke range. On the bicycle trail ofthree countries, which starts at the three-country border with Austria and Italy, a visitto Bled through the valley Radovna is highlyrecommended. A bicycle route map and

lunch in your backpacks might be the bestway to get to know the Zgornjesavska valley.The trail is in perfect condition all the wayuntil Mojstrana. You can also take manydetours from this main trail. If you are anadrenaline buff, then the Kranjska Gora bikepark with its courses offers everything youcould wish for, including the childrens bikepark.

Hiking eventsHiking is definitely amongst the most

popular summer activities. There are plenty

of trails for everyone, from the easiest

recreational hikes to serious Alpine tours,which demand experience, appropriateequipment and a mountain guide. The firstwonderful trail can be found in the confinesof the Triglav National Park The TriglavskaBistrica trail in Vrata is a true experience ofnature the Perinik waterfall, the galleries,the gable of the Vrata and the mighty Triglavnorthern wall. Conquering Triglav via this wallis a real achievement. You can also havemysterious experiences in the valley Kot,from where the road along the Radovna

valley leads you to the Gorge (Vintgar).


Photo: Photo collection of LTO Kranjska Gora, f oto B. Kladnik

Photo: Photo collection of LTO Kranjska Gora

Photo: Photo collection LTO Kranjska Gora, foto Matev Lenari



TIC Kranjska GoraUlica Dr. Josipa Tiarja 2SI - 4280 Kranjska GoraT: +386 (0)4 580 94 40tic@kr anjska -gora .eu,www.kranjska-gora.si

EVENTS15 Jun 18 Sep > Triglav fairy tales20 Jun 23 Jun > 120th Anniversary of PGDMojstrana22 Jun > 3th Assault on Dovka Baba23 Jun 30 Jun > 12. Kekec Days25 Jun > 19. Vri Mountain Pass Run29 Jun > Alpine Convention Day

4 Jul 29 Aug > Slovenian evenings Dovjeand Mojstrana3 Jul 25 Aug > Vitranc Summer Festival6 Jul > Pa damaem in Rute

10 Jul > Alenka Gotar students11 Jul > Ansambel Zupan Concert12 Jul > Nuka Draek and Bla JurjeviConcert13 Jul > Village evening in Dovje17 Jul > MC Trio Concert19 Jul > Iva Stani Concert20 Jul > SOLUM: Divine valley, divine food25 Jul > Ansambel Zupan Concert26 Jul > Katrinas Concert26 Jul 4 Aug > Charcoal days27 Jul > Mikhail Ivanovich Glinka Choir fromSt. Petersburg Concert28 Jul > Memorial celebration by the RussianChapel

2 Aug > Duo Igmar Jenner and Borut MoriConcert3 Aug > SOLUM: Divine valley, divine food3 Aug > Fireman party Pod lipo6 Aug > The Municipality of Kranjska Goracelebrating holiday7 Aug > Tulio Furlani and Milko Coev8 Aug > Ansambel Zupan Concert9 Aug > Ditka Haberl Concert10 Aug > SOLUM: Divine valley, divine food14 Aug > The Users Concert

15 Aug 18 Aug > Zgornjesavska valleypicnic15 Aug > Village day in Ratee15 Aug > The running event Kranjskogorska10-ka23 Aug 24 Aug > kerljs Days23 Aug 25 Aug > The Alja event

7 Sep > 35rd Ascent up Vri8 Sep > The Tree-country border meeting20 23 Sep > 3tour VITRANC 1stRecreational Cycling Congress

We hold the right to change the program.

Ljubljana

85km

Kranjska Gora


Those who enjoy the sight of a precipicehave to experience the challenging trail toPrisank from Vri. Those who like safersights can discover the road to Slemenovapica, the meditative solitude of thepanoramic forest walk from Vri to the lakeswith a view of the magnificent Jalovec.Perhaps the most beautiful trail in theZgornjesavska valley is the trail to the first

and second Martuljek waterfall.Nordic walkingKranjska Gora offers many opportunities forthis ever more popular version of simplewalking. There are instructors available andyou can also borrow poles.

THE LIZNJEK HOUSE, KRANJSKA GORAThe Liznjek house is a genuine SlovenianAlpine house, which was renovated andrefurbished in 1983 and adapted into anethnological museum. The cellar features apermanent exhibition about the life and work

of childrens author Josip Vandot (1884-1944) and a temporary gallery.

THE KAJNK HOUSE, RATEEIt belongs in the category of renovatedobjects with a very much preserved folk

architecture. In it you can see areconstruction of the equipment from ablack kitchen and pantry, exhibitions of theRatee folk garb and local history, old filmson the still preserved customs and thePlanica ski jumping competition and anexhibition of handiwork made by members ofthe Ratee-Planica Tourist Association.

Photo: Photo collection of Slovenian Alpine Museum

Photo: Photo collection of Gornjesavski muzej esenice, foto Silvo Kokalj

Photo: Photo collection LTO Kranjska Gora, foto Iztok No

POCAR FARM, ZG. RADOVNAThe house has been turned into museumand is one of the oldest homesteads in theTriglav National Park. Through itsappearance, rich exhibition and the storytold by the guide it introduces the visitor tothe life, work and architectural heritage ofthe past centuries.

Photo: Photo collection LTO Kranjska Gora, foto Matja VidmarCultural sights

SLOVENIAN ALPINE MUSEUM,MOJSTRANAIn the Slovenian Alpine Museum the past

and present walk together. A rich collectionof objects with versatile historicalbackgrounds, versatile photographic andarchival material and a comprehensivetechnical librar y offer visi tors an insight intothe mass appeal and importance of Alpineactivities in Slovenia.


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JeseniceThe town of Jesenice, located on the sunny

side of the Alps, is well known for its traditionalironworking and steel industry. Sports

enthusiasts, aboveall, consider Jesenice a

Slovene hockey town due to the boldness of itsplayers and fans. Jesenice also boasts one ofthe most beautiful and well-kept town centers

including the 'Old Sava', a f ormer set lementnow officially part of the town, which unites

cultural heritage with modern industrialarchitecture.


Ljubljana

65km

TIC JeseniceCesta marala Tita 18, 4270 JeseniceT: + 386 4 586 31 78tic.jesenic [email protected]

Jesenice

Jesenice is enveloped in a shroud of naturalbeauty including stunning mountain hamlets,the proximity to the peaks of Karavanke,rivers and streams, ski slopes and foresttrails. For touris ts who are curious and eagerto learn, Jesenice will entice and enchantyou while filling you with new strength.

Jesenice's point of interest are theBucelleni-Ruard Manor which is a museumabout the iron-industry, the KasarnaResidential House where in the 18th centurysoldiers where housed, the Church of theAssumption of the Mary from the 16thcentury and the former heart of the iron-industry Plav.

Adventures andActivities in Jesenice: hiking cycling trips skating swimming the trim erjavec footpath themed trails guided and independent trip

Your Daily Sourceof Information

Check Summer Guide 2013 atwww.sloveniatimes.com




JezerskoWhere nature is atits best.

Themed walking path

While walking through the Ravenska KonaValley, you can stop and take a peek at thepast of the beautiful mountainous landscape,observe how a glacier once shaped itssurface and how natural forces havechanged the landscape right before oureyes. The unassuming path goes along the

Jezernica stream through pastures, overwhich it opens to a magnificent view of thenorthern walls of the Kamnik Savinja Alps.On the way, you will learn about theemergence of the valleys wealth of animalsand plants as well as the other attractionsthat make Ravenska Kona worth a trip.

The Shepherds Ball (thesecond Sunday in August)The Shepherds Ball is the oldestethnographical per formance in Slovenia.

Here you can witness the droving of sheepfrom the mountains, the life and customs ofthe alpine shepherds and dairymen as wellas the shearing of sheep and processing ofwool. At the performances, we will spoil youwith the authentic food of the shepherds andpleasant local music.

www.bohinj.si

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TIC JezerskoZg. Jezersko 574206 Zg. JezerskoT: +386 51 219 [email protected] iwww.jezersko.info

Ljubljana

56km

Jezersko

EVENTSVox Laci Music Festival > June - AugustJezerska torja, Ethnographic Weekend> July 25th 28th

The Shepherds Ball > Sunday, Augus t 11th

Experience unforgettablemountain sceneryJerzerskos surroundings have long beenattractive to hikers and nature lovers, due toits untouched wild life, refreshing climate

and numerous natural attractions. You canexperience the wealth of nature here all yearround as the valley is encircled by lovelymountains, peaks and walls of rock. Itslocation and accessibility makes it an idealdestination for all those wishing to enjoy theirholidays in natures most beautiful form.



Bled: Sloveniastourist hot spotSlovenias most picturesque sceneA lake surrounded by mountains that have their tops covered in snow, a small island in the lakewith a white church that sticks its head out above the trees and next to the lake Slovenias oldest

cast le shining its splendour on top of a hill. There you have L ake Bled, Slovenias most picturedscene and tourist hot spot number one.

The little overgrown rock in Lake Bled isSlovenias only island, but it is quite someisland! The main building is the Church of theAssumption of Mary. There is a staircasewith 99 steps leading to the church.Tradition has it that grooms have to carrytheir brides up these stairs.When visiting thechurch, make sure to ring the Wishing Bellfrom 1534. Those who ring the bel l three

times will have their wish come true.


EVENTSFrom 1 July till 18 July violins will sound

everywhere on the 18th

InternationalMusic Festival Bled. > Its one of thebiggest violin festivals in central Europe.Expect concerts every evening in BledsFestival Hall, St. Mar tins Church and VilaBled, workshops, master classes and a violincompetition. The performed music is acrossover of Jazz and Classical.

When the sounds of violins have fadedanother festival starts. From 19 till 21 JulyBled Days and Bled Night will be. > Onthis event there wil l be local ar t craf t andconcerts on the promenade of Bled. And the

highlight will be during Bled Night when15,000 lights are lit in Lake Bled andfireworks will be set of f from Bled Castle.The 23rdOkarina Ethno Festival Bled willagain bring music to Bled. > In the first twoweekends of August (2-4 August and 9-11August) music from all over the world willsound in Bled Castle and Spa Park. Slovenianethno musicians as well as renowned ethnomusicians from the rest of the world will perform.

Other popular eventsthis summer in Bled are:

13 July > Nights 10 (A 10 kilometre runaround the lake at night)24-25 August > Firefighter CombatChallenge Slovenia1 - 3 September > Bled Strategic Forum7 September > Triathlon Bled21 September > 23rd National RowingChampionship

Ljubljana

58km

Bled

An eventful summerHealth tourism was the driving force that,from the second hal f of the 19th century,made Bled Slovenias most popular touristdestination. The picturesque little town hasthe thermal springs, mild climate andsurroundings for a proper health holiday. Buttoday it of fers much more. This summer aseries of events is scheduled, that will make

a visit to Bled more than worthwhile.

Photo: Jot Gantar, Picture Slovenia

Photo: Bled Tourist Board ArhivePhoto: Bled Tourist Board Arhive

TIC BledCesta svobode 10, BledT: +386 4 574 11 [email protected]

,,When you visit Bled, be sure to try thefamous kremnita. This cream cakewas invented in Bled and is celebratingits 60 th birthday this year.

Photo: Bled Tourist Board Arhive


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RadovljicaRadolca, honestlysweetLess than an hours drive from the capital, justbefore Lake Bled, is the charming town ofRadovljica, its surroundings presenting adestination of numerous sweet experiencesand discoveries.

town walls opens out towards the valley ofthe Sava River and the Julian Alps.

KropaNear the foothills of the forested Jelovicaplateau you can find the green LipnikaValley, where, in the 14th century,blacksmithing began to develop in Kropaand Kamna Gorica. Kropa, the cradle ofSlovenian blacksmithing, is unique in itspreservation of our architectural andtechnical heri tage testi fying to centuries ofhand forging. The Blacksmith Museumoffers visitors an insight into the rich tradition

of iron-forgery in Kropa. Today, this traditionis still being continued by companies andindividuals from the area who forge exquisiteworks of art from precious iron.


EVENTSEvery Tuesday and Friday between 1 julyand 16th August > Hop On Hop OffRadolca, Tourist Bus: BledRadovljicaBegunjeKropa Radovljica - BledEvery Tuesday at 10:00am > guided tour ofRadovljicaJuly 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th > Musical Thursdaysat Linhartov Square, RadovljicaJuly 7th, August 4th, September 1st > FleaMarket, RadovljicaJuly 6th > Iron Forging Festival, Kropa

August 4th

> Medieval Market, RadovljicaAugust 10th25th > Festival Radovljica (oldmusic festival), RadovljicaAugust 23rd25th > Festival Avsenik, Begunje

Ljubljana

51km

Radovljica

Turizem RadovljicaLinhartov trg 9, 4240 RadovljicaT: +386 531 51 [email protected]

Radovljica and its surroundings are knownas Radolca, which, with its nature andtraditions intertwined, of fers many his torical,cultural, natural and traditional experiences.Discover the traditions of beekeeping andblacksmithing, which have continued toproduce their precious creations forcenturies without interruption. We invite youto discover the local Slovenia through ourexcellent cuisine, recreational options andnumerous sweet forms of self-indulgence.

RadovljicaThe attractive medieval town centre ofRadovljica will inspire you with its many taleshiding behind the walls of charming housesfrom the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. Tothis day, the town is the home of potters andgingerbread makers and in the museums,you can acquaint yourself with beekeeping,the firs t Slovenian dramatist and bourgeoishouses. The crowning points of the centralsquare are the exquisite Baroque manor and

the stunning view, which from behind the

Begunje na Gorenjskem

Beneath the foot of Karavankes mountaincrest, the village of Begunje na Gorenjskemcan be found. Begunje is the home ofOberkrainer music and the Elan ski companyas well as hiking paths leading to mountainpastures and the peaks of the Karavankemountain range. The village is also the home

of the Avsenik Museum devoted to the mostfamous Oberkrainer ensemble as well as theHostage Museum. Entrance to the DragaValley beneath the Karavanke is protectedby the mighty ruins of Kamen Castle. Not faraway is the village of Brezje with its basilicaof the Virgin Mary, Slovenias largestpilgrimage centre.


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NakloIts happening in the village!Aleksander Meek expressed his wish, in one of his poems, for a country road to lead him to Upper

Carniola. Should you also be carried away to the Upper Carniolan paradise between the greymountains and the green rivers, make sure you stop in Naklo. Come and see the relaxed pulse ofour municipality for yourselves!

The Duplje ManorSpodnje Duplje also boasts a manor built inthe 13th century by the Knights of Duplje.The small countryside manor has seen manydifferent owners such as the Mauser familywho, according to historical sources, renovatedthe manor. Visitors are also invited to strollthrough the galley and the museum corner.

Our Lady of Sorrows inPodbrezje

The Our Lady of Sorrows Church captivatesus from its place on the hill. With its pointedbell tower built in the Gothic style, the churchwas once protected by an anti

slovenia's summer guide 2013

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